Conservation Practice

Entry requirements

For entry requirements for this course, please visit our website.

Months of entry

September

Course content

This hands-on conversion programme is dedicated to teaching the next generation of conservators through problem-based learning on real heritage objects.

Our MSc Conservation Practice programme takes a theory into practice approach to bench conservation, led by accredited conservators and taught through lectures, seminars and laboratory practice.

Designed as a conversion programme for humanities and science graduates seeking a career in conservation, this two-year programme offers significant experience working on archaeological and historical objects in the lab, plus real-world conservation placements.

Gaining a sophisticated understanding of theoretical principles and practical applications under expert tuition, you will become adept in the care and protection of cultural heritage artefacts through laboratory experience. Developing your skills in the practice of both new and traditional conservation techniques, you will amass considerable experience of working on cultural heritage objects from the UK and across the globe. More than this, you will demonstrate valuable transferable skills in project and resource management, problem solving and communication.

Taught by leading practitioners respected worldwide, our programme combines the knowledge and expertise to operate at professional conservation levels in the heritage sector, with a solid platform for pursuing future research.

This degree has been established as a conversion course making it ideal for those from humanities and science backgrounds. We value your strong interest in the subject, without the expectation of prerequisite volunteer or intern hours, specific degrees or science qualifications. However, an interest in science would be beneficial. Please share details of your interest in the sector and level of scientific understanding in your application.

Celebrating the centenary of archaeology and conservation in 2020, our research placed 9th among archaeology departments in the UK, as well as 5th for impact and 6th for research outputs in the latest UK assessment (Research Excellence Framework 2021).

Fees and funding

If you’re a home-fee paying student, you can apply for a £3,000 Master’s Excellence Scholarship from Cardiff University to help cover the cost of this programme.